Intertidal Surveys

Dynamic Ocean Consulting provides professional intertidal survey services to assess, monitor, and understand coastal ecosystems across Canada. Our marine biologists and field technicians combine traditional field techniques, innovative technology, and scientific best practices to deliver reliable, defensible data that supports environmental assessments, research programs, and conservation initiatives.

Purpose of Intertidal Surveys

Intertidal surveys are essential for evaluating the health and biodiversity of coastal habitats. These surveys focus on the area between high and low tide — one of the most biologically productive and environmentally dynamic zones on Earth.

The data collected supports:

  • Habitat characterization and ecosystem health assessments

  • Species diversity inventories and biological monitoring

  • Impact evaluations from coastal development or climate change

  • Conservation and restoration planning

By integrating biological and physical measurements, intertidal surveys help to inform management decisions and guide sustainable coastal development.

People walking on a rocky shoreline near a barren, sandy area with rocks and tide pools, with hills in the background under a cloudy sky.
Two people in outdoor gear examining samples on a rocky shoreline near a body of water with hills and a concrete structure in the background.
A person wearing a hard hat, safety vest, and backpack examining rocks on a rocky shoreline with a measuring tape and orange survey tool.

Methodologies and Approach

Dynamic Ocean employs standardized scientific methodologies to ensure data accuracy and comparability across sites. Our approach includes both qualitative and quantitative assessments, tailored to the specific objectives of each project.

Our methods include:

  • Quadrat and transect sampling to document species abundance, biomass, and distribution

  • Photographic and video documentation for visual verification and long-term comparison

  • Drone-supported aerial imagery for mapping and spatial analysis

  • Data logging and GIS integration for precise georeferencing and reporting

We align our methodologies with recognized Canadian coastal monitoring frameworks, such as those developed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) through the Atlantic Zone Monitoring Program (AZMP) and related regional initiatives. This alignment ensures that our data are scientifically robust, comparable, and contribute meaningfully to national coastal monitoring efforts.

Experience Across Canada’s Coasts

Our team has extensive experience conducting field programs across all of Canada’s coastal regions — including Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy, renowned for its extreme tidal ranges, and Nunavut’s Koojesse Inlet, where tidal exposure and remote logistics demand careful planning and execution.

We emphasize field safety, logistical planning, and data integrity to ensure every survey meets the highest professional standards.

Sunset over a body of water with a grassy shoreline and buildings in the distance, and three people wading in the water near the shore.

Integrated Coastal and Marine Surveys

Dynamic Ocean is uniquely equipped to integrate intertidal, subtidal, and deepwater surveys, enabling seamless habitat assessments from shoreline to offshore. Our team can coordinate ROV and diving operations to complement intertidal datasets, providing a complete picture of your project’s marine environment.

Explore our ROV Surveys and Diving Operations pages for more details.

Partner With Us

Whether your goal is biodiversity monitoring, environmental impact assessment, or coastal research, Dynamic Ocean Consulting provides the expertise and technical capability to deliver accurate, defensible intertidal data.

Contact us today to discuss your intertidal or integrated marine survey needs.